Luxury apartments being planned for former Offaly public house
Work currently underway at landmark premises in Tullamore town centre
A FORMER public house in Tullamore town centre will likely be redeveloped for residential use, a source with knowledge of the project has said.
The pub most recently known as the Copper Pot, which had an early morning licence, is undergoing renovation work at present.
A small number of luxury apartments, perhaps six or more, some of which could be three-bed units, will be located in the building.
The owner may develop the units for short-term accommodation, given the building's close proximity to the Esker Arts Centre and because of the shortage of hotel beds in Tullamore at present.
Alternatively, the apartments might be available to the private rental market.
After trading for many years as Cosgrove's and then the Copper Pot public house the building was lined up for refurbishment by Hanney Properties Ltd, a company whose director is Offaly businessman Nigel Reams, best known for his activities in the energy sector.
It appeared it would continue as a hostelry and according to planning documents lodged with Offaly County Council, the premises was believed to be one of the oldest pubs in Tullamore, was connected with brewing in the 1800s and had a bakery at the rear.
The building was sold and while it is understood the current owner still has a liquor licence, it might not be used at the premises.